Helen Mclaughlin

Helen A. McLaughlin, 91, formerly of Pennside, passed away Monday, September 14, 2015 at 8:45 pm in Zerbe Sisters Nursing Center, Caernarvon Township, Lancaster County. She was the wife of the late Donald E. McLaughlin who passed away February 11, 2004. Born in Burnham, PA she was the daughter of the late George W. and Ruth G. (Gray) Allen. She was a 1941 graduate of Lewistown High School and a 1943 graduate of Temple University with a degree in Secretarial Studies. Mrs. McLaughlin was a member of Pennside Presbyterian Church and was a self employed seamstress. Her skills as a seamstress were in great demand in the area. She was a tireless worker and avid reader who loved long discussions about current events and politics. Helen liked Neil Diamond and loved gospel music, especially The Gaither Family Singers which she never missed on a Sunday evening. Helen had a deep quiet faith which she instilled in her children. Her family was precious to her and her doors and arms were always wide open. Even her grandchildren felt like her home was just an extension of their own.
Helen is survived by her children Mark O. McLaughlin, husband of Phyllis J. McLaughlin of Shillington; Jeffrey A. McLaughlin of Spring City, PA; Donald E. McLaughlin, Jr., husband of Janette McLaughlin of Bradford, Maine and Christine M. Beahan, wife of the late Brian J. Beahan of East Earl, PA along with her 11 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Gilbert H. Allen and was preceded in death by her sister Joan A. Russler in 2012.
Memorial Service will be held in Pennside Presbyterian Church, 253 North 25th Street, Reading, PA 19606 on Sunday, September 20, 2015 at 5:00 pm. Reverend David J. Duquette will officiate. Interment will be held privately by the family. The family will receive relatives and friends in Pennside Presbyterian Church on Sunday from 4-5:00 pm. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Pennside Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund at the above address in memory of Mrs. Helen A. McLaughlin. Bean Funeral Homes & Crematory, 6 Fairlane Road, Exeter Township is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.beanfuneralhomes.com